Joseph Isangura
Leaders and officials from political parties across Tanzania have been urged to strictly adhere to the country’s Election Expenses Act to ensure transparency and avoid irregularities in the upcoming General Election scheduled for October 2025.
The call came during a one-day training session at the Julius Nyerere International Conference Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, organized by the Registrar of Political Parties to provide guidance on the legal requirements for campaign financing. The training brought together senior party leaders and officials to strengthen understanding of the law and reinforce democratic practices nationwide.
Juma Khatibu, Chairman of the Political Parties Council, emphasized the importance of compliance with the law, citing past challenges where candidates and parties lacked understanding of campaign expense reporting. “History has shown that inadequate knowledge led to major errors and misuse of funds,” Khatibu said. “These sessions are critical to ensuring that the upcoming election is conducted smoothly and transparently.”
During the session, Judge Francis Mutungi — Registrar of Political Parties — highlighted the need for civil and respectful campaigning. He urged party leaders to avoid abusive language, slander, or actions that could threaten national peace and unity. “The election is not the end of politics or development. Leaders must set a positive example for citizens, preserving the peace that our founders bequeathed to us,” Judge Mutungi explained.
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Candidates for the presidency, parliamentary, and council positions are legally required to submit detailed reports of campaign expenditures prior to nomination. CPA Edmund Mugasha, Head of the Grants Section at the Registrar’s Office, explained that the law allows the Registrar to lodge objections against any candidate who fails to comply. “Forms have been distributed to all districts and constituencies, and it is mandatory for candidates to complete and return them,” he said.
Officials also stressed the importance of educating lower-level party officials and candidates about proper financial reporting to prevent violations that could compromise election integrity. The training encouraged leaders to use the knowledge gained to guide their candidates and party members effectively, ensuring adherence to the law at all levels.
